Lug Nuts
 

We just got a new 3s and I was trying to properly torque the lugs. On the cross type lug wrench, the 13/16 socket works. However, when trying to use a stand-alone socket w/ my torque wrench, THAT 13/16 socket will not fit the lug. I've tried (2) different sockets by (2) different manufacturers and neither one would fit. What's the deal here?? We also have a 2000 Protege and had the same issue with that car. Do Mazda's need special sockets?? Any help is appreciated.

Haven't seen any replies, so I called the dealership. After explaining what I was doing, the guy said not to use sockets in inches and to use metric sockets (21mm). That still doesn't explain why the head on the cross type wrench worked, but not a stand-alone socket. Oh well, hope this case is solved.

Does it have anything to do w/ how many sides the socket vs tire wrench had? maybe the tire wrench "worked" b/c it could still catch the lugnut, just wasnt exact size.

I thought of that too. I had counted and the cross had (6) sides. One of the sockets had (6) sides and the other had many "teeth" in it. I bought a 21 mm socket today that has the many "teeth" in it and it fit like a glove. So, looks like the dealership folks are right for a change.

You definitely don't want the one with many teeth.. 12 point sockets will eventually damage and strip your nuts, leaving you stranded. If it's a 6-point nut, use a 6-point socket.

Stock size for lug nuts is 21mm, but if they aren't the originals who knows.. I know mine are 3/4" (smaller) to fit in the holes on my wheels..

and why the head on the cross-type wrench worked? poorly constructed tools have huge tolerances. (13/16) inch = 20.6375 millimeters.

You're on the right track there kansei. But star type lug wrenches are designed to be universal fit, and because of that they have larger tolerances. Check out the socket on an air gun at any tire store and you sill see that they are six-point, and the tolerances are huge.

Thanks for the heads up, I wish I had checked this before my errand trip as I just drove by the auto store.